Elevate, Inc. founder and President Aakash Patel was invited as a panel speaker at Tampa Bay Startup Week, an event sponsored by Chase for Business. As a panelist, Aakash was asked many questions including the tools he implements within his company in order to help his clients reach their potential. For the record, growth hacking typically uses software, databases, API’s and related tools to grow a startup or to better a business.
“It all starts with believing in the power of a firm handshake and it also starts with a simple conversation”, says Aakash Patel. He goes on to explain the significance of social media and its prevalence within society before asking, “How many of you have tried to grow your business through a press release or called a local news reporter to come and do a story to spread the word about your business?” Aakash explains that those are great ways for your company to receive publicity and exposure, however, it doesn’t always bring you an immediate increase in business.
Aakash adds that his method for social media includes posting photos at events. “We are bragging to the community about what we do and showing them that what we are doing is working. This concept can be as simple as taking a photo at an event with the guest speaker or if you sponsor the event to make sure your company name is in the photo and then once you post on social media, make sure you tag everyone who is in the photo.” A big part of this method is the use of hashtags – hashtags are a way of tracking a subject, so it is in each company’s interest to create and use their own hashtag. These analytical tools have been most effective in gaining followers for his business, Elevate, Inc.
Throughout the years, the wheels kept turning and Aakash was determined to maintain seeing growth around the community. “I created a group of ambassador’s and a group of friends that is our circle of influence. We send email blasts through constant contact every other week. Through the email blasts, it shows the reader how we can help their company grow. We also showcase how we have helped the companies that we have.” Aakash continues to share the other lessons as he has learned through the creation of Elevate, Inc. and goes on to tell the audience, “The other part is to have a motto and to share your motto with everyone…believe what you are doing is something that is effective and trust in it.” The first motto Aakash created and still holds truth today is, “Be Bold, Be Brave, Be You”, which is an idea that all can benefit from as a way to feel empowered!
During the early stages of his company’s growth period, Aakash called ten of his mentors. He asked each of them for their personal biography and told each mentor that he was starting an advisory board. Aakash then asked them, “Why do you believe in me?” They all saw the potential in Aakash as well as his idea for Elevate, Inc., which could positively contribute to the community. With being said, most of the mentors are now sitting on his board of directors and are heavily involved in success and growth of Elevate, Inc.
Aakash continues to grow his business and create wealth and opportunity for his clients. He states, “Be innovative, and be disruptive. That is the formula for growth. You have got to set yourself apart!”
